Saint Paul University

Humanity at the heart of every discovery.

📍 Ottawa, Canada 🇨🇦

Quick Facts about Saint Paul University

  • Type: Public
  • Students: 1,070
  • International: 25%
  • Campus: Urban
  • Tuition: $14,600 – $22,000/year
  • Language: English, French
  • Intakes: January, May, September

About Saint Paul University

Saint Paul University (SPU) in Ottawa, Canada, offers a personalized academic experience within a bilingual, Catholic, and public institution. Federated with the University of Ottawa since 1965, students at SPU earn a University of Ottawa degree, benefiting from a smaller campus environment while accessing broader university resources. SPU focuses on human and social sciences, emphasizing ethics, social justice, and dialogue.

Academics

Saint Paul University specializes in human and social sciences, offering strong programs in areas such as Social Communication, Public Ethics, Canon Law, Conflict Studies, Human Relations, Philosophy, Theology, Counselling and Psychotherapy, and Leadership, Ecology, and Equity. The teaching approach is human-centered and interactive, with a low student-to-professor ratio of approximately 12:1, ensuring personalized attention. Many programs offer interdisciplinary perspectives, rooted in ethics, service, social justice, and dialogue.

International Students

Saint Paul University provides a range of support services for international students, including language improvement assistance (English and French), orientation, settlement guidance, and immigration advising. The university offers programs taught in English, requiring proof of English proficiency through tests like TOEFL or IELTS. Approximately 23% to 25% of the student population comprises international learners, contributing to a diverse student body. Students can also participate in a buddy program to aid cultural integration. The Saint Paul University Student Association (SPUSA) represents students and is involved with student clubs, providing health and dental insurance, and a free International Student Identity Card.

Campus & Location

Located in the heart of Ottawa, Canada's capital city, Saint Paul University benefits from a vibrant urban setting. The campus is situated on Main Street, near the Rideau Canal and urban green spaces. Ottawa is recognized for its high quality of life, safety, and public services, making it an attractive destination for students. The university offers on-campus residence options, and students have access to University of Ottawa resources, including libraries and clubs. A free shuttle bus service operates between Saint Paul University and the University of Ottawa campuses from September to May.

Career Outcomes

Saint Paul University's graduates demonstrate strong employment outcomes, with data indicating that they find jobs in their respective fields. The university emphasizes developing emotional intelligence, communication skills, ethical awareness, and conflict resolution abilities, which are highly valued by employers. Career services include individual career consultations, professional development workshops on resume writing and interview techniques, job fairs, and mentorship opportunities. Students can also gain practical experience through internships and volunteering in the community.

Information for International Students at Saint Paul University

Saint Paul University in Ottawa, Canada welcomes international students, with 25% of the student body coming from abroad.

  • 25% of students are international
  • Visa support available
  • On-campus work allowed
  • Student housing available
  • Work placement / internship opportunities available
  • Teaching languages: English, French

Admissions Requirements for Saint Paul University

Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Saint Paul University:

  • IELTS minimum: 6.5
  • TOEFL minimum: 79
  • Duolingo minimum: 120
  • Selectivity: Moderate (40-60%)
  • Application deadline: April 1, 2026 for international students (Fall admission)

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Programs at Saint Paul University (16 programs)

Saint Paul University offers 16 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.

Bachelor Programs (6)

  • Human Relations and Spirituality (BA) — 48 months · English · $7,500/yr · Scholarship available
    A multidisciplinary study of human behavior, psychological development, and the spiritual dimensions of the human experience.
    Field: Psychology and Theology
    Career outcomes: Social Worker, Spiritual Caregiver, Human Resources Specialist
  • Ethics and Contemporary Social Issues (BA) — 48 months · English · $7,500/yr · Scholarship available
    Examines moral dilemmas in modern society, including bioethics, environmental ethics, and corporate responsibility.
    Field: Philosophy/Ethics
    Career outcomes: Ethics Officer, Policy Analyst, Legal Assistant
  • Social Communication (BA) — 48 months · English · $7,500/yr · Scholarship available
    Focuses on the ethical use of media and communication technologies to promote social change and community development.
    Field: Communication
    Career outcomes: Communications Officer, Journalist, Media Consultant
  • Human Relations and Spirituality (BA) — 48 months · English · $7,500/yr · Scholarship available
    A multidisciplinary study of human behavior, psychological development, and the spiritual dimensions of the human experience.
    Field: Psychology and Theology
    Career outcomes: Social Worker, Spiritual Caregiver, Human Resources Specialist
  • Ethics and Contemporary Social Issues (BA) — 48 months · English · $7,500/yr · Scholarship available
    Examines moral dilemmas in modern society, including bioethics, environmental ethics, and corporate responsibility.
    Field: Philosophy/Ethics
    Career outcomes: Ethics Officer, Policy Analyst, Legal Assistant
  • Social Communication (BA) — 48 months · English · $7,500/yr · Scholarship available
    Focuses on the ethical use of media and communication technologies to promote social change and community development.
    Field: Communication
    Career outcomes: Communications Officer, Journalist, Media Consultant

Master Programs (2)

  • Social Innovation (MA) — 24 months · English · $8,500/yr · Scholarship available
    Focuses on the management and leadership of social enterprises and the design of innovative social policies.
    Field: Social Sciences
    Career outcomes: Executive Director, Social Policy Consultant, Innovation Manager
  • Social Innovation (MA) — 24 months · English · $8,500/yr · Scholarship available
    Focuses on the management and leadership of social enterprises and the design of innovative social policies.
    Field: Social Sciences
    Career outcomes: Executive Director, Social Policy Consultant, Innovation Manager

PhD Programs (8)

  • Conflict Studies (PhD) — 48 months · English · $8,000/yr · Scholarship available
    Doctoral research focusing on original contributions to the field of conflict resolution and peacebuilding.
    Field: Conflict Resolution
    Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Researcher, Policy Lead
  • Canon Law (PhD) — 48 months · English · $8,000/yr · Scholarship available
    Specialized doctoral research in ecclesiastical law, focusing on complex legal issues within the Catholic Church.
    Field: Law
    Career outcomes: Canon Law Professor, Judicial Vicar, Legal Consultant
  • Counselling and Spirituality (PhD) — 48 months · English · $8,000/yr · Scholarship available
    Advanced clinical research and theoretical study at the intersection of psychology and spiritual care.
    Field: Psychology
    Career outcomes: Clinical Supervisor, Academic, Private Practitioner
  • Theology (PhD) — 48 months · English · $8,000/yr · Scholarship available
    Highest level of academic study in theology, requiring a dissertation that contributes new knowledge to the field.
    Field: Theology
    Career outcomes: Professor, Theological Consultant, Author
  • Conflict Studies (PhD) — 48 months · English · $8,000/yr · Scholarship available
    Doctoral research focusing on original contributions to the field of conflict resolution and peacebuilding.
    Field: Conflict Resolution
    Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Researcher, Policy Lead
  • Canon Law (PhD) — 48 months · English · $8,000/yr · Scholarship available
    Specialized doctoral research in ecclesiastical law, focusing on complex legal issues within the Catholic Church.
    Field: Law
    Career outcomes: Canon Law Professor, Judicial Vicar, Legal Consultant
  • Counselling and Spirituality (PhD) — 48 months · English · $8,000/yr · Scholarship available
    Advanced clinical research and theoretical study at the intersection of psychology and spiritual care.
    Field: Psychology
    Career outcomes: Clinical Supervisor, Academic, Private Practitioner
  • Theology (PhD) — 48 months · English · $8,000/yr · Scholarship available
    Highest level of academic study in theology, requiring a dissertation that contributes new knowledge to the field.
    Field: Theology
    Career outcomes: Professor, Theological Consultant, Author

Scholarships & Tuition at Saint Paul University

Annual tuition for international students: $14,600 – $22,000/year

✅ Saint Paul University offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.

Campus & Facilities at Saint Paul University

  • Student housing available
  • No sports facilities
  • Disability support available
  • Campus type: Urban

Key Highlights

  • Affiliated with the University of Ottawa
  • Bilingual programs in English and French
  • Leader in conflict studies and theology
  • Small classes with personalized learning
  • Focused on social justice and transformation
  • Diverse international student community

Notable Alumni

  • Cardinal Francis Eugene George
  • Sister Helen Prejean
  • Richard Moth
  • Paul-André Durocher
  • Marcel Gervais

Frequently Asked Questions about Saint Paul University

What is Saint Paul University?

Saint Paul University is a public university located in Ottawa, Canada. It has approximately 1,070 students, with 25% being international students.

How much does it cost to study at Saint Paul University?

Tuition fees at Saint Paul University for international students range from $14,600 – $22,000/year. Scholarships are available for international students.

What are the admission requirements for Saint Paul University?

IELTS minimum: 6.5. TOEFL minimum: 79. Duolingo minimum: 120. Selectivity: Moderate (40-60%). Application deadline: April 1, 2026 for international students (Fall admission).

What language are courses taught in at Saint Paul University?

Courses at Saint Paul University are taught in English and French. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.5.

How many programs does Saint Paul University offer?

Saint Paul University offers 16 programs: 6 Bachelor's, 2 Master's, and 8 PhD programs across various fields of study.

Does Saint Paul University offer scholarships?

Yes, Saint Paul University offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.

Does Saint Paul University provide visa support?

Yes, Saint Paul University provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available. On-campus work opportunities are available.

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